Jose Reyes to see time in outfield during spring training

Mets general manager Sandy Alderson told reporters at the winter meetings today that Jose Reyes will practice in the outfield during spring training.

Reyes, who has made his claim to fame at shortstop, returned to the Mets in 2016 and played primarily third base, logging 50 games at that position while hitting .267/.326/.423. His time in the infield in 2017 could be limited by David Wright at third and Neil Walker at second base. Reyes has committed to making himself useful no matter where he plays.

Reyes figures to start the season on the Mets’ bench, and getting time at multiple positions would only benefit him as the season progresses. Of course, the Mets’ outfield is already crowded, and the team is trying to trade away one of Jay Bruce or Curtis Granderson. A switch-hitter, Reyes has fared slightly better against left-handed pitching than right-handed pitching in his career. If he’s able to handle the outfield defensively, which isn’t a certainty, he could occasionally complement the Mets’ left-handed hitting outfielders.